538.

KEY SCRIPTURES: Luke 19:1-5  And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.

RELEVANCE

We looked at Zacchaeus a couple of years ago here. He was a leader in initiative and true repentance. 

Despite his riches and local fame, what truly set Zacchaeus apart was his unwavering desire to see more of Christ. He demonstrated immense courage and determination by finding and climbing a tree, regardless of how the locals might have perceived him. 

Up The Tree moments arise in everybody's life—opportunities to enjoy more profound experiences of Jesus. Peter walked on water to absorb more of Christ, and Paul hid himself in the desert to gain greater understanding. What trees have you climbed to increase your closeness? 

Zacchaeus was saved by climbing that tree. He could have remained on the ground, deficiently yearning, but he took action. In all our cases, action is needed. 

There is a Latin term Facta Non Verba – Deeds Not Words! 

It is the same as Jesus' words, By the fruits ye shall know them.

We become known by the fruit of our actions, not only by whether they are righteous or not but by whether we do what is needed to increase our intimacy with the Holy Spirit.  

Zacchaeus, a short man, could have done what we often do—stand there static, hoping Christ would notice him. Then again, he could have gone a step further, but still far less than required. He could have found a stool and stood on that, still not being high enough to see the prophesied Immanuel, God With Us. Yet, he ignored every fear, discomfort or humiliation and went to the extent of using the highest available platform. The opportunity wasn't going to get passed him.  That decision completely changed his life—all of it!

Is your life where Christ wants it? Is it complete in its ministry, or do you feel there is more to which He is calling you?

The Holy Spirit is often heard in a still, small voice, as God told Elijah (1 Kings 19:12). Are you hungry enough to hear and obey your "Up The Tree" callings regardless of when they present themselves?      

Prayer

My Lord, how many Up The Tree moments have I disregarded for one reason or another? May I find the boldness, hunger and faith to chase and find your perfect will. 

Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel